Canada will have a "robust" response if Donald Trump imposes tariffs on its goods, but Canadian leaders are split over energy as a bargaining chip.

Canadian political leaders say “nothing is off the table” when it comes to responding to potential 25% tariffs from the US, days before they could come into force.

But strains are showing in “Team Canada” when it comes to whether energy supply should be a tool in a possible tariff war with the US.

Canadian officials argue (tariffs) would undermine the US economy, increase inflation for American consumers - including raising prices at the petrol pump - and hamper investment.

They also warn tariffs could undermine national security, given Canada, a US ally, is a key source of energy and critical minerals.

  • Maple Engineer@lemmy.world
    271·
    3 days ago

    It was never on the table. Trump is a serial fraudster and bully. He thinks that committing fraud makes him a shrewd businessman. Bullies belittle and diminish their victims to make them feel helpless. That’s what he trying to do to Canada. He thinks that he can treat countries the way that he treats suppliers by unilaterally changing the terms of contracts or simply refusing to pay and making them sue him. He was humiliated by the fact that Canada and Mexico didn’t just roll over last time he tried to unilaterally change NAFTA in favour of the US and he’s determined to make us pay for that humiliation now.

    Canada will once again target red states that form Trump’s base with painful tarrifs. Targeted countries need to work together and coordinate their efforts. We have strength in numbers.